When you hear the word rose, not many people associate it with Japanese culture. I think the image of it being a Western flower is strong. In fact, even in yukata patterns, roses are rarely used in classic designs, but are a motif often used in modern designs. However, surprisingly, roses have existed in Japan as a native plant since the Nara period. I would like to explore the charm of roses, a flower renowned for its beauty, by tracing their history.
Western history
Roses are a historic plant that has existed for over 50 million years. In Europe, roses can be seen painted on the walls of ruins from civilizations that flourished before the Common Era. It was during this period that roses began to be cultivated as "medicinal herbs" for use in fragrances and medicine. At times, roses were bred to symbolize religion or power and were treated as special "medals," while at other times, they have continued to be beloved in the West as flowers enjoyed daily by common people. Famous historical figures such as Cleopatra, Roman Emperor Nero, and Napoleon's wife Josephine all loved roses more than jewels, gold, or silver, and they have undergone significant development as ornamental plants.
◯Roses in Japan
So, up to this point, you probably already know a lot of the information. While the beautiful rose developed and evolved in the West, it actually has deep roots in Japanese history. The first mention of roses in Japan dates back to the 700s, in the Man'yoshu. The original rose species also existed in Japan. The word "rose" is said to derive from "ubara" (thorn). In fact, roses appear not only in the Man'yoshu, but also in other best-selling works from the Heian period to the present day, such as The Tale of Genji, The Pillow Book, and the Kokin Wakashu. Western roses were introduced to Japan during the Edo period. Surprisingly, even before the introduction of Western roses, the rose itself appeared in numerous historical documents, often featuring a uniquely Japanese rose motif. While native Japanese roses still grow wild, they bear wildflower-like flowers rather than the roses you see in florists. While not the shape we're used to seeing, native Japanese roses are still widely used today as a basis for breeding.
As mentioned earlier, the breeding of roses to create new varieties was mainly done in Europe, but most of the roses that were crossed for breeding purposes were native to Asia. The roses we see today are, so to speak, half Asian and half European. They are plants that have been improved not only by Western culture, but also by the intermingling of regional cultures.◯Modern pattern
Many people may feel that the term "modern pattern" is not typical of Japanese culture. Modern patterns are often found in the vibrant, unique designs of yukata, popular among young people in recent years. Roses are a common motif in these modern designs. Some may be surprised to see a Western motif being used in a yukata, a symbol of Japanese culture. However, roses are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and the rose we imagine today is a cross between European and Asian roses, a motif that can be seen as a bridge between cultures. Roses are also a mysterious motif, with meanings and impressions that change dramatically depending on their color. Red roses represent "love," white roses "purity," pink roses "elegance," yellow roses "friendship," and so on. Roses perfectly fit the Japanese culture's characteristic of "infusing meaning into patterns and designs." Just as roses have been cherished in the West for their charm and beauty, vibrant and classic designs also highlight the charm of each individual woman. Although they seem like completely different things, roses and yukatas have many things in common, so it can be said that they are a perfect match. The combination of roses, a symbol of "Western culture," and yukata, a symbol of "Japanese culture," is starting to seem more and more wonderful, isn't it?
What did you think? The more you learn about the culture of yukata patterns, the more fascinating it becomes. This time, we traced the history of roses, a symbol of modern patterns, and explained their appeal! Learning about history and the appeal of Japanese and Western cultures will change the way you see yukata patterns. We would like to recommend rose-patterned yukatas to those who tend to shy away from modern patterns. This year, just as classic patterns have their own unique appeal in Japanese culture, why not try to understand the "meaning" and "appeal" of modern patterns? Incidentally, roses do not have a seasonal word, and are said to be suitable for wearing at any time of the year, regardless of the season! Why not make one your favorite? At hiyori, we also have a selection of yukatas decorated with roses, so we will introduce them to you at the end.
